Firefighter killed battling shop blaze

A firefighter has died and his colleague hospitalised as they tried to tackle
a major blaze in a shop in Manchester city centre.

Stephen Hunt, 38, and his fellow firefighter had to be pulled from the burning building after they got into difficulties as they attempted to quell the flames at Paul's Hair World last night. Photo: PA

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"We never expect to lose a colleague in this way and it brings home the dangers that our firefighters put themselves in every day to keep the community safe.

"Stephen had been a dedicated firefighter since 2008 and we are all in a state of shock.

"It is a very sad day for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and all our thoughts are with Stephen's family and friends.

"Details of exactly what happened are unclear at this stage but will be investigated thoroughly and independently.

"We have asked our neighbouring Fire and Rescue Services to immediately start an investigation into the incident and circumstances leading to this terrible tragedy. We are working alongside Greater Manchester Police to establish the cause of the fire.

"At this stage arson is not being ruled out.

"(The firefighters) are clearly devastated by the loss of their colleague and I pay tribute to their professionalism, courage and dedication - while in mourning they are continuing to keep the community safe."

The fire began around 2.50pm yesterday. Firefighters are still trying to extinguish it and are expected to remain on the scene throughout today.

The second firefighter pulled from the blaze remains in hospital but his injuries are not thought to be life threatening.

The pair got into trouble inside the building at around 8.35pm.

The fire, which started in the store room of the shop, has been particularly difficult to tackle due to the complex layout of the building and the amount of materials inside, a spokeswoman for the fire service said.

The shop sells hair extensions, human hair wigs, and beauty products.

The owner and a passer-by had tried to put the fire out but were unable to and both were taken to hospital suffering smoke inhalation, she added.

By 4pm yesterday, 12 crews and more than 60 firefighters from stations around the county were tackling the fire which broke through to the first floor.

The crews who have been involved in tackling the fire have been offered support by the fire service.

A spokeswoman for the fire service said it will be working with the police and the Health and Safety Executive.

In a statement Mr McGuirk thanked the ambulance service's Hazardous Area Response Ream who battled to save Mr Hunt's life.

Many have taken to the force’s Facebook page to express their sympathies for Mr Hunt.

One tribute read: "Heartbreaking news, thoughts go out to his family and also to his brave colleagues who continue to fight this fire even as they are grieving."

While Janet Polkinghorne wrote: “God bless you all for your never ending hard work, love a deepest sympathy to his family and you all.”